Can cinnamon be used as rooting hormone?
Written by
Tina Carter
Reviewed by
Prof. Martin Thorne, Ph.D.Cinnamon is a really great antifungal for rose cuttings, but it won't work as a substitute for rooting hormones. Cinnamon can act as a rot inhibitor, but it does not promote root growth like commercial rooting hormone products. I like to apply some cinnamon powder to the cuttings after using one of the commercial rooting hormones for extra protection. This way, the cuttings are protected from the fungal threat, and the rooting hormone has the best chance to take hold.
Powder cinnamon on the cut end and lower stem for an added extra. Dust lightly. This will help protect from soil diseases. It will also inhibit molds as roots are forming. During summers in humid areas, this has saved many cuttings in the greenhouse.
Commercial rooting hormones contain auxins, which promote the division of root cells. Cinnamon does not contain any growth stimulants, but can be used in conjunction with a product like Hormex #8, not exclusively. This two-pronged approach will stimulate rooting and prevent rot, respectively.
Preparation Method
- Use pure Ceylon cinnamon powder, not cassia varieties
- Apply immediately after hormone treatment
- Dust lightly over cut end and lower 2 inches of stem
- Reapply after heavy watering if washed away
Combination Benefits
- Hormone stimulates root formation
- Cinnamon prevents fungal infections
- Together they increase survival rates significantly
- Works best in high-humidity environments
Very make a cinnamon solution for water-started cuttings by mixing one teaspoon of cinnamon per cup of warm water. Soak the cuttings for approximately two hours before adding them to the soil. This provides them with protection without clogging their stems. I even use this for store-bought roses that tend to rot easily.
Observe your cuttings closely when utilizing cinnamon. Some plants have been known to exhibit sensitivity to concentrated applications of certain chemicals. Although this is rare, if you notice discoloration on the stems, reduce the amount used. Always test prod on a few cuttings before treating the rest. This is to avoid any potential problems.
I have increased my propagation success rates by 20% by incorporating cinnamon into my routine. Classifications of cinnamon do not act as a rooting hormone and aren't truly necessary, but they provide valuable protection. I recommend keeping cinnamon in your gardening toolbox, in addition to using the right hormones. This spice deserves to be called out in our rose propagation techniques.
Read the full article: How to Grow Roses from Cuttings
